Happiness: A Cloisonne Brooch and Pendant Design

Integrating Tradition and Modernity

The Happiness brooch and pendant design by Xiaojie Hu is a stunning example of the integration of traditional craftsmanship and modern jewelry design. Inspired by the symbolism of the magpie and the significance of bamboo in oriental culture, this piece showcases the artist's mastery of the cloisonne technique.

What sets this design apart is the artist's ability to combine the traditional cloisonne craft with the elegance of gold, silver, diamonds, and emeralds. The result is a modern interpretation of a traditional art form, creating a unique piece of jewelry that is both visually striking and culturally significant.

The process of creating the Happiness design is incredibly intricate and time-consuming. The magpie cloisonne process involves multiple steps, including cutting, carving, tinsel, silver inlay, glaze coating, high-temperature firing, and grinding. Each piece is fired 20-30 times at temperatures of around 800 degrees Celsius, requiring exceptional skill and precision. The manual craftsmanship involved adds to the rarity and value of each piece, making it all the more precious in today's fast-paced industrial age.

The Happiness brooch measures 56cm in height and can also be worn as a necklace, offering versatility for different occasions. Made from cloisonne, gold, silver, diamonds, and emeralds, this design showcases the artist's attention to detail and commitment to using high-quality materials.

This exceptional design was created by Xiaojie Hu and will be produced in Beijing in 2021. The project is expected to take two months to complete, reflecting the dedication and craftsmanship required to bring this design to life.

The challenges faced during the creation of this design were significant. Breaking through tradition and combining the cloisonne craftsmanship originally used for utensils with gold and gemstones required innovative thinking and technical expertise. Xiaojie Hu successfully overcame these challenges, resulting in a design that is both unique and visually stunning.

The Happiness design has been recognized for its excellence and creativity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Jewelry, Eyewear, and Watch Design category in 2022. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity, technical skill, and a commitment to improving the quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

With its blend of tradition and modernity, the Happiness brooch and pendant design by Xiaojie Hu is a true work of art. Its intricate craftsmanship, cultural significance, and use of high-quality materials make it a standout piece in the world of jewelry design.